Ask any dermatologist or beauty editor what product has the power to truly transform their skin, and they’ll likely point you toward a serum. Lightweight, ultra-concentrated, and designed to target specific concerns, serums are the heavy lifters of any skincare routine. I see them as a unique, personalized step—powerful enough to tackle everything from dullness to breakouts, depending on what my skin needs most.
So, what makes a serum different from a daily moisturizer? Licensed esthetician Amy Wyman explains that, “Serums are formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients to target specific skin concerns like uneven tone, lines, acne, or dullness. Moisturizers, on the other hand, focus on hydration and creating a protective barrier.” That’s why serums are uniquely positioned to deliver visible results—whether your goal is brightness, firmness, or skin repair.
Board-certified dermatologist Andrea Austin, MD, agrees, noting that "a well-formulated serum can do what moisturizers and cleansers can’t." The lightweight, targeted formula helps key ingredients work where they're needed most, she explains. Wyman highlights that serums are “the most effective in targeting very specific skin issues,” but warns against product overload. “There’s no need to use multiple products with the same ingredient—it can be too much for the skin and not cost-effective. Look for multi-faceted formulas that address multiple concerns." If you have sensitive or reactive skin, this is especially true, and Dr. Austin says to evaluate the ingredients carefully. "I steer clear of drying alcohols, synthetic fragrance, and essential oils. Stick to high-science, high-integrity formulations," she says.
And yet, with so many bottles promising smoothness, brightness, plumpness, and more, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Not sure where to start? I've done the work to decode it all. Whether you’re looking for a no-fuss hydrating serum packed with hyaluronic acid or something more targeted—like a dark spot corrector, a fine-line fighter, or a calming, barrier-repairing option—you’ll find a match here. Ahead, the 18 best face serums for every skin type, concern, and budget.
The Best Face Serums
- Best Overall Serum: Dieux Deliverance 3-in-1 Serum
- Best Vitamin C Serum: Skinceuticals CE Ferulic
- Best Recovery Serum: XO8 Cosmeceuticals Vital Restorative Elixir
- Best Hydrating Serum: PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum
- Best Soothing Serum: Joanna Vargas Rejuvenating Serum
This top pick is a multi-tasking serum that hydrates, brightens, and fights early signs of aging like dullness and fine lines. It’s lightweight yet potent, making it a standout for everyday use. I’ve noticed that it smooths texture and even improves my skin tone over time, so I don’t feel like I need a ton of different products in my routine. It layers beautifully under moisturizer and makeup, making it a simple, effective go-to. Honestly, it’s the serum I turn to when I want my skin to look radiant and as if I had a full night’s sleep.
Key Ingredients: Peptides (firms); Vitamin C (brightens); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates)
Who It’s For: All skin types seeking an all-in-one solution
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Multi-tasking formula that covers hydration, brightening, and anti-aging in one step; Fragrance-free and layers seamlessly
What I Don’t: Not as targeted for those seeking a single-focus treatment
Review for MC: "I love that this covers hydration, brightening, and anti-aging all in one step. It’s simple, effective, and my skin always looks refreshed after." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Writer
Before, during, and after application of the Dieux Deliverance Antioxidant & Niacinamide Serum
This next pick is a cult-favorite antioxidant serum that brightens, firms, and protects skin from environmental damage. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, it helps even skin tone while reducing the appearance of fine lines. With consistent use, it leaves the complexion looking radiant and healthy. It's Ideal for anyone looking to boost antioxidant protection in their daily routine.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C (brightening); Vitamin E (protects with antioxidants); Ferulic acid (stability and protection)
Who It’s For: All skin types, especially those seeking brightening and anti-aging benefits
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Delivers an instant brightening effect; Offers powerful antioxidant protection throughout the day
What I Don’t: Expensive and prone to oxidizing if not stored properly
Review for MC: "A staple in my morning routine. It instantly lifts my complexion and layers well under sunscreen. Worth the splurge for the results." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
Before and after application of the SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic.
A powerhouse for stressed, post-procedure, or fatigued skin, this formulation delivers concentrated actives that bring radiance back to a dull complexion, calm inflammation, and support your skin’s barrier—all without feeling heavy or greasy. Bring the serum down to your neck and décolletage with a gentle massaging motion.
Key Ingredients: Peptides (support collagen and firmness); Niacinamide (brightens and soothes); Squalane (hydration and barrier support)
Who It’s For: All skin types, especially skin in need of repair and recovery
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Lightweight texture that deeply restores; Calms and smooths stressed skin without heaviness
What I Don’t: Premium price may not suit all budgets
Review for MC: "I recently discovered Xo8 by way of their stem cell sheet mask (if you haven't tried it, I highly recommend it as a pick-me-up before an event), but I had to give a special shoutout to this serum. It's truly the only treatment product I've been using in my routine—it lifts, delivers hydration, provides antioxidant protection, and plumps up fine lines. Plus, the texture is beyond luxurious and the bottle lasts forever.” — Sam Holender, Senior Beauty Editor
Before and after application of the XO8 Cosmeceuticals Vital Restorative Elixir.
This is the definition of a skin luxury ritual. The formula is packed with La Mer’s signature Miracle Broth plus a blend of restorative ingredients that work overnight to repair and strengthen skin. The texture is silky and nourishing without feeling heavy, and I love the subtle calming scent—it feels like I’m tucking my skin in for the night.
Key Ingredients: Miracle Broth (brand's proprietary complex); Antioxidants (protects from environmental aggressors); Glycerin (hydrates); Probiotics (soothes)
Who It’s For: All skin types seeking luxury repair and hydration
Size: 1.7 fl. oz., 0.5 fl. oz.
What I Love: Rich, reparative formula that plumps and calms skin overnight; feels indulgent to use
What I Don’t: High price point
Review for MC: "I've always loved La Mer's signature Crème de la Mer, I mean, how could you not? But after hearing the industry hype, I knew I had to try this treatment, and it did not disappoint. With its potent actives and delivery system, it's more of a treatment than a cream. It's pure magic, and I use it every time after a facial treatment at my dermatologist's office or whenever I increase my retinol strength." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
Before, during, and after application of the La Mer The Night Recovery Concentrate Treatment.
My skin always tells me when its barrier is in trouble—tightness, redness, that “don’t touch me” feeling. This serum has become my gentle fix. It’s powered by plant-based antioxidants, soothing botanical extracts, and hydrating polysaccharides that work together to calm irritation and strengthen the skin’s natural defenses. When I use it consistently, my skin feels more resilient and far less reactive, even in the face of cold air, central heating, or too many new products at once. The lightweight texture also makes it perfect for layering under moisturizer without ever feeling heavy. It’s like a daily shield that quietly reinforces my skin barrier.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (barrier support); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Botanical extracts (soothes)
Who It’s For: Sensitive, compromised, or dry skin
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
What I Love: Gentle yet effective at supporting barrier health; Ideal for sensitive or reactive skin
What I Don’t: Slightly herbal scent may not appeal to everyone
Review for MC: "I rely on this after travel or on stressed skin days. It strengthens and calms my skin without irritation." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
Before and after application of the Tata Harper Superkind Bio-Barrier Serum.
This is my daily armor against environmental stressors. I use it to protect my skin from pollution, UV rays, and other aggressors, and it leaves my complexion hydrated and calm. Parsley seed extract and vitamin E pack a serious antioxidant punch, while glycerin keeps skin soft and hydrated. I’ve noticed that it maintains my skin tone and prevents dullness even during long days in a big city. The lightweight texture absorbs immediately and layers beautifully under other products.
Key Ingredients: Parsley seed extract (antioxidant); Vitamin E (protective); Glycerin (hydration)
Who It’s For: All skin types, especially those more exposed to pollution or sun
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Lightweight, protective, and calming; Guards against daily environmental stressors
What I Don’t: Lightly fragranced, which may not suit sensitive skin
Review for MC: "I love using this before my moisturizer. It keeps my skin calm, hydrated, and protected throughout the day." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
Before, during, and after application of the Aēsop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Intense Serum.
This serum is basically a mini spa in a bottle. I’ve reached for it on days when my skin is red, irritated, or stressed, and it instantly calms and refreshes. Aloe vera and chamomile work together to soothe, while hyaluronic acid keeps everything hydrated without feeling heavy. I love the lightweight texture—it absorbs quickly, so I can layer my moisturizer on top without feeling greasy. Over time, I’ve noticed that my skin looks calmer, more balanced, and less reactive.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, chamomile extract (soothes and calms); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates)
Who It’s For: Sensitive or reactive skin
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Instantly calms redness and irritation; Lightweight, refreshing texture that absorbs quickly
What I Don’t: Very fragrant
Review for MC: "Perfect for days when my skin is inflamed or irritated. It soothes without heaviness and leaves a soft, dewy finish." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
Before and after application of the Joanna Vargas Rejuvenating Serum.
Packed with multiple forms of hyaluronic acid, this serum delivers a surge of moisture to quench dehydrated skin, plumping fine lines and leaving the complexion soft and dewy. It layers beautifully under both moisturizers and makeup, making it ideal for morning routines. Over time, it helps maintain skin elasticity and prevents skin dullness.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin (hydration); Panthenol (soothes and strengthens)
Who It’s For: Dry, dehydrated, or dull skin
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Instantly plumps and hydrates; Layers well under moisturizer and makeup
What I Don’t: May require an additional moisturizer in very dry climates
Customer Review: "A must for dry aging skin. I was starting to have breakouts due to overly dry skin. Saw a derm and they put me on different acne meds that made my skin sensitive to the sun, so I saw an esthetician instead. They got me on this and the collagen hydrator. Game changer! Love it!" — Dermstore
This is basically a nighttime miracle in a bottle, and I honestly can’t get enough of it. I use it before bed when I want my skin to feel soft, smooth, and replenished by morning. Packed with retinol to reduce fine lines, hyaluronic acid to hydrate, and niacinamide to even tone and texture, the serum works overnight to target signs of aging and leave skin feeling rejuvenated by morning.
Key Ingredients: Retinol (increases cellular turnover); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Niacinamide (evens tone and texture)
Who It’s For: Mature or aging skin looking for a budget-friendly option
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Affordable option with effective overnight results; Leaves skin smooth and rejuvenated
What I Don’t: Retinol content may irritate sensitive skin
Review for MC: "An accessible option that really delivers. I wake up with smoother, more radiant skin without breaking the bank." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
This concentrated vitamin C serum has been my go-to for over a year, and I always reach for it when I want bright, even, and radiant skin. I love how the hyaluronic acid keeps my skin hydrated, soft, and plump, and the lightweight, fast-absorbing texture layers seamlessly under my moisturizer. With consistent use, I’ve noticed dark spots and dullness fading, leaving my complexion luminous and refreshed. It’s perfect for an instant glow before a special event—or just as a daily pick-me-up in my routine.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C (brightens); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Antioxidants (protects from environmental aggressors)
Who It’s For: All skin types, especially dull or uneven skin
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
What I Love: Instantly brightens and smooths; Lightweight formula that layers without pilling
What I Don’t: Small size and higher price point for frequent use
Review for MC: "I see an immediate glow after application. It’s perfect for brightening days when my skin looks tired or uneven." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
This serum feels like a little lifting treatment in a bottle. I apply it when I want my skin to look plumper, smoother, and firmer. Peptides support collagen production, hyaluronic acid hydrates, and gentle botanical extracts soothe while improving texture. I’ve noticed that over time, my skin feels firmer and more elastic, and fine lines appear softened. I love how it layers under moisturizer or makeup without feeling sticky or heavy.
Key Ingredients: Peptides (firms); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Botanical extracts (soothes)
Who It’s For: All skin types, especially those wanting firmer, lifted skin
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Plumps skin beautifully; Absorbs quickly without residue
What I Don’t: Formula is slightly watery, so it can run between fingers during application
Review for MC: "My skin feels firmer after consistent use. Love layering this under my moisturizer." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
This Augustinus Bader x Victoria Beckham Beauty serum feels like a luxe treatment with every application—fitting, considering the high-end brands that created it. I’ve noticed over time that my complexion feels firmer, more lifted, and more resilient. It layers under moisturizer and makeup seamlessly, while the lightweight texture feels super silky with no added heaviness.
Key Ingredients: TFC8 Augustinus Bader patented complex (supports skin renewal process); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Peptides (firms)
Who It’s For: All skin types, especially those targeting fine lines and early signs of aging
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Softens fine lines and improves resilience; Luxe texture that layers elegantly under makeup
What I Don’t: Absorbs slowly, so it needs a few minutes before layering other products to prevent pilling
Review for MC: "I notice my fine lines look softened, and my skin feels hydrated and resilient. A real luxe treat for daily use." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
This next pick contains powerful actives for a noticeably smoother, more even, and hydrated complexion. After just the first few uses, I noticed a bouncier texture and fewer rough patches on my own skin. The secret is its use of malassezin—i.e., a naturally occurring molecule that is said to be 10 times more effective than vitamin C, less irritating, and also improves the skin's moisture barrier. Smooth, even skin is basically inevitable with this serum.
Key Ingredients: Peptides (firms); Niacinamide (brightens); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates)
Who It’s For: All skin types, especially those dealing with discoloration or dark spots
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Visibly smooths and strengthens skin; Science-backed formula that targets multiple concerns
What I Don’t: Potent formula can feel strong on first use, especially for sensitive skin
Review for MC: "My skin feels firmer and brighter after consistent use. It’s a serious science-backed serum for results-driven skincare." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
Sometimes my skin just needs a reset, and this is my go-to for restoring its glow. With a high potency of chemical exfoliants, like alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids, it sloughs away dead cells and clears congestion, but the honey base keeps it from crossing into irritation territory. There’s also propolis and royal jelly to soothe and nourish while the acids do their thing. The morning after I apply it, my skin feels ridiculously smooth, like I’ve just had a professional facial. It’s the perfect blend of effective exfoliation and gentle care, so I can use it regularly without worrying about overdoing it.
Key Ingredients: AHA/BHA (exfoliates); Honey (soothes); Glycerin (hydrates)
Who It’s For: All skin types except highly reactive; Ideal for dull or uneven texture
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Delivers professional-level smoothness overnight; Combines exfoliation with soothing honey
What I Don’t: Strong acids may be too intense for sensitive skin
Review for MC: "My skin looks instantly refreshed and brighter. Perfect for resurfacing without dryness." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
I’ve learned that with acne-prone skin, you need treatments that pull double duty: clearing blemishes while keeping skin hydrated and calm. This serum nails it. It combines anti-inflammatory and oil-reducing green tea with amino acids and gentle hydrators to help balance oil production and soothe breakouts, all without the drying, flaky aftermath.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid (clears breakouts); Niacinamide (soothes and balances); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Green tea (reduces inflammation and oil)
Who It’s For: Acne-prone or breakout-prone skin
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Clears blemishes without over-drying; Lightweight texture suitable for layering
What I Don’t: The initial tingling sensation may be uncomfortable for some
Review for MC: "This serum keeps my breakouts under control without stripping my skin. A lifesaver for acne-prone days." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
This is the serum to reach for when your skin is in SOS mode—whether it’s post-travel dryness, over-exfoliation, or just looking tired and flat. It also works well for mature skin that appears dull and dehydrated because it’s packed with amino acids and protein-rich ingredients that replenish and reinforce the skin barrier. Put simply, it's designed to repair and strengthen skin while delivering intense hydration and protection.
Key Ingredients: Growth factors (skin repair); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Amino acids (produces collagen)
Who It’s For: All skin types needing repair or extra nourishment
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Deeply restorative; delivers professional-grade results at home
What I Don’t: Limited availability due to being exclusive at Bergdorf Goodman
Review for MC: "Can’t live without this product. It rebalances, refines, renews, and gives clarity to my complexion. I have fewer breakouts, fewer milia, and less dryness. It goes on 1st after P50 1970 lotion and before the prescriptions I use on my face. It makes a visible difference." — Bergdorf Goodman
This clean, potent serum reinforces the skin barrier while soothing and protecting against environmental aggressors. It’s lightweight enough to layer under other products, but on days when my skin feels especially sensitive, I let it be the star of my routine. Within just a couple of uses, my skin feels stronger, less reactive, and better protected against outside stressors.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (improves skin texture); Peptides (firms); Ceramides (supports skin barrier)
Who It’s For: Dry, sensitive, or compromised skin
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Restores the skin barrier; Lightweight enough for layering
What I Don’t: Not widely available in major retailers
Review for MC: "I use this on days my skin is irritated or dehydrated. It restores comfort and resilience fast." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
Hyperpigmentation is one of my biggest ongoing battles, and niacinamide has become one of my most trusted allies. This serum combines licorice root with other brightening agents to fade dark spots and prevent new ones, all while hydrating and calming skin.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (brightens); Licorice root extract (reduces dark spots); Glycerin (hydrates)
Who It’s For: All skin types with hyperpigmentation or uneven tone
Size: 1 fl. oz.
What I Love: Lightens dark spots over time; Gentle enough for daily use
What I Don’t: Results will take time and consistent use to become visible
Review for MC: "I’ve noticed visible improvement in dark spots without irritation. It’s gentle but effective." — Isabelle Adler, Contributing Beauty Editor
What Are The Benefits of Using a Face Serum?
Face serums are lightweight, ultra-concentrated treatments that deliver active ingredients deep into the skin. Their smaller molecular structure allows them to penetrate super effectively, targeting specific concerns such as hydration, fine lines, dark spots, or loss of firmness.
Because they’re designed to address particular issues, serums often feature powerhouse ingredients—such as hyaluronic acid for hydration, vitamin C for brightening, retinoids for skin cell turnover, or peptides for strengthening the skin barrier. They’re essentially the problem-solvers of your routine, working behind the scenes to boost results you can actually see.
Unlike cleansers or moisturizers, which focus on surface-level benefits, serums act as your skin’s treatment step—helping improve tone, texture, and resilience over time. Whether your goal is glow, clarity, or repair, the right serum can be the make-or-break product in your regimen.
What to Look For In a Face Serum
- Ingredients:
A great serum is all about high-performance, targeted ingredients that address specific skin concerns. Wyman says that serums are “the most effective in targeting specific skincare issues,” and recommends looking for multi-factorial formulas that do more than one job.
For hydration, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, panthenol, and squalane plump the skin and support barrier health. To brighten and even skin tone, vitamin C, niacinamide, and licorice root extract are excellent choices. Anti-aging benefits often stem from peptides, retinol, and growth factors, which help boost collagen, smooth fine lines, and enhance skin elasticity.
- Skin Type
Choosing the right serum starts with understanding your skin type. Dry or dehydrated skin benefits from hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane to restore plumpness and moisture. Oily or combination skin responds well to lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas that regulate oil, unclog pores, and prevent breakouts without feeling heavy. Aging or mature skin often responds well to peptides, retinol, and antioxidant-rich formulations, which help boost firmness, smooth fine lines, and protect against environmental stressors. Sensitive or reactive skin thrives on soothing, barrier-repairing ingredients such as ceramides, aloe, and chamomile, which help calm irritation and strengthen the skin.
For sensitive or reactive skin, Dr. Austin also recommends gentler exosome-based serums, which work by acting as tiny messengers your cells release that carry proteins and signals to help other cells repair, regenerate, and communicate. As a result, your skin acts younger and heals faster, which shows up as more glow, firmness, and resilience. Exosome serums are also ideal for anyone new to actives or recovering from skin procedures like microneedling or lasers.
How We Tested
Editors and contributors underwent a rigorous testing period, during which they reviewed dozens of serums. After consulting with makeup experts to determine the top picks, they tested each serum for its actives, performance, texture, feel, and results to compile this list of the 18 best face serums. They also evaluated customer reviews and best-selling products across our favorite retailers.
Why Trust Marie Claire?
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Meet The Experts
Dr. Andrea Hui Austin is a partner at Bay Area Cosmetic Dermatology and a double board-certified Dermatologist. She joined the practice in 2014. Dr. Hui Austin spent many years perfecting the art of cosmetic dermatology, training in dermal fillers like Restylane and Juvéderm, wrinkle relaxers like Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin, as well as laser treatments like skin tightening and resurfacing. She also focuses on the diagnosis of skin cancers and treatment with Mohs micrographic surgery and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Hui Austin is dedicated to helping her patients achieve and maintain beautiful skin through education and a personalized skincare plan
Amy is a Master Esthetician with over a decade of experience, having graduated from the National Institute of Medical Aesthetics in 2015. She specializes in advanced treatments like Diamond Glow Facials and microneedling, known for their ability to renew, regenerate, and restore the skin. Her approach combines meticulous technique with science-driven skincare, tailoring each treatment to address her clients’ unique concerns. Since joining SkinSpirit in 2021, Amy has continued to refine her expertise alongside top practitioners in the field.
